Depression and FACs

[Jnadreth]

Hi all

I eventually want to apply for an FAC (Failing that a SGC) at some point in the future but I have been treated for depression in 2006...then 2009 till now(2007-2008 I was working). I have never been hospitalised for it...just treated with anti-depressants. I am still on my AD's but I asked my GP to keep me on them as a preventative measure I dont have a criminal record...not even a caution...or even a verbal caution for that matter. I know how to apply for one...and I am aware of a local small bore club extremely close to me (Air Rifles/Pistols and .22lrs only) but I'd love to hear some feedback and suggestions about anything I can do to increase my chances Of course I know I will have to be completely honest about all this ans the FEO's look very badly on fibbers. I do know the FAC/SGC requirements like on the Gun safes (BS7558/92) and the ammo safes (gotto keep them seperate with either 2 safes or a safe with another safe inside)...Any advice would be greatly appreciated

[ovenpaa]

Hmm... a lot of quite how your application goes will depend on your GP and they might be a good starting point. Form 101 first page asks if you have ever been treated for depression or words to that effect and you need to give details of your current GP. I would be inclined to have a chat with them and see what views they had on you joining a small bore rifle club, explain why you want to join and what you hope to get out of it and bottom line ask if they think it would be OK.

Based on that conversation you can then consider membership of a club and eventually an application for an FAC. Do not be put off if they say hang on a while before you go any further.

[IainWR]

Hi Jnadreth

Depression is a difficult area when it comes to police discretion over FACs. If you are an NRA member please give me a call at work to discuss this. Or if you are a BASC, NSRA or CPSA member call them and speak to their Licensing people.

Iain Robertson
NRA Firearms Liaison

01483 797777 x 154

[Jnadreth]

Hmm... a lot of quite how your application goes will depend on your GP and they might be a good starting point. Form 101 first page asks if you have ever been treated for depression or words to that effect and you need to give details of your current GP. I would be inclined to have a chat with them and see what views they had on you joining a small bore rifle club, explain why you want to join and what you hope to get out of it and bottom line ask if they think it would be OK.

Based on that conversation you can then consider membership of a club and eventually an application for an FAC. Do not be put off if they say hang on a while before you go any further.

Well I anticipated the need to be patient and I am in no rush to get an FAC anyway tongueout I was thinking of joining said club and waiting a good couple of years before applying for a ticket. I've found target practice with my Air Rifle very theraputic and enjoyable and I'd like to continue this at a higher level smile2. Yup....will need to join a Union :lol:

[TJC]

Work through Iain as offered. Many have gone down this path and have FACs.

[Jnadreth]

Work through Iain as offered. Many have gone down this path and have FACs.

Yup Though as I said..waiting a little while before doing anything...Thanks

[Polchraine]

It will all depend on how your GP/consultant reports the original problem and your current state of mind followed by how the FEOs then interpret the reports. If you have an "anti" for a GP it could be phrased inappropriately ...

I know of someone (passed away last year) who suffered depression and almost a mental breakdown. He was able to apply for and retain his SGC.

[Sim G]

It was once explained, "depression" as a reaction to a situation, such as bereavement or job loss or work stress, has very little effect on an FAC application if short term with all other aspects being equal.

Depression in regards to a clinical illness is likewise no bar to owning a firearm, but be prepared to have much deeper questions...

[Dangermouse]

I read that you are able to recognise the symptoms, know where and how to access help and have copping measures in place. If only everybody did.
You have also been copping with depression, on and off for a number of years without incident which will not go un noticed should you apply in the future.
I would imagine that the FET would be interested in your home life, ie relationship with those around you and possibly what they think of you applying for a FAC.

Joining the club is certainly the first step and will give you a chance to see where your interests take you. Air rifle shooting is just as competitive and fun as full bore and you may find that just as rewarding. If you have not had a go at archery yet, give that a go as well. Both those sports can be cheaper than full bore shooting with similar rewards.

Also, don't be afraid to speak with your FET / FEO. You might be surprised by the response that you get, a mature person in this roll will appreciate your concerns and should be able to give you some honest advice before you lay out any money.
Beware the PC filling in for FEO's they will not be giving the best advice. Perhaps if you can tell the board which county you come under someone might be able to give you a name to contact?

Good Luck,

DM

[Jnadreth]

I read that you are able to recognise the symptoms, know where and how to access help and have copping measures in place. If only everybody did.
You have also been copping with depression, on and off for a number of years without incident which will not go un noticed should you apply in the future.
I would imagine that the FET would be interested in your home life, ie relationship with those around you and possibly what they think of you applying for a FAC.

Joining the club is certainly the first step and will give you a chance to see where your interests take you. Air rifle shooting is just as competitive and fun as full bore and you may find that just as rewarding. If you have not had a go at archery yet, give that a go as well. Both those sports can be cheaper than full bore shooting with similar rewards.

Also, don't be afraid to speak with your FET / FEO. You might be surprised by the response that you get, a mature person in this roll will appreciate your concerns and should be able to give you some honest advice before you lay out any money.
Beware the PC filling in for FEO's they will not be giving the best advice. Perhaps if you can tell the board which county you come under someone might be able to give you a name to contact?

Good Luck,

DM

Well I own an air rifle (Benjamin NP Trail .22cal) and thats what I plan to shoot in a clubs setting razz ....I am in the West Midlands....I allready have the locals plods website faved for future reference. PC's filling in for FEO's....yes no doubt the cuts will affect FEO numbers and PC's would be drafted for that duty. As I said before...I'll be takin my time about this so nothing immediate is planned Target shooting in my Garden actually is very calming....I find it a great stress relief...its also the only guilty pleasure I have I don't drink, I don't smoke....so I have to shoot :lol: